5 Creative Thanksgiving Desserts That Aren't Pie

This year, think outside the crust.

Beet Cake With Apple Buttercream

Photo by Sarah Karnasiewicz

The brilliant beets in the batter mellow to a golden brown during baking and lend this moist cake an autumnal look and sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with apple butter-infused frosting. To save on prep work, look for cooked, vacuum-sealed beets (like these) in the produce section of your supermarket.

Grape Nuts Pudding With Maple Syrup

Photo by Sarah Karnasiewicz

The old fashioned breakfast staple is transformed into a rich, homey New England-style dessert when paired with simple nutmeg-spiced custard and a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream. Want to go all out? Finish with a drizzle of dark maple syrup.

Cranberry Cocoa Nib Brownies

Photo by Sarah Karnasiewicz

Plump cranberries and cocoa nibs add tartness and eye-popping color to these fabulously fudgy brownies. Before placing the pan in the oven, sprinkle the tops of the brownies with an additional spoonful of nibs for extra crunch.

Spiced Pear Skillet Upside Down Cake

Photo by Sarah Karnasiewicz

Sticky, caramelized pears top a moist, cardamom-scented, toffee-colored spice cake. The best part? The whole thing can be prepared entirely in a cast iron skillet. If you don't have pears on hand, apples are a fine substitute.

Apple and Cheddar Fritters

Photo by Sarah Karnasiewicz

Excite your guests—and put some of those apples you just picked to use—with these adorable, bite-sized fritters. This savory-sweet flavor combo is classic for good reason: The saltiness of sharp cheddar and the tang of apples complement each other perfectly.